India Delivers BrahMos Missiles to Philippines, Bolstering Defense Against China

The strategic arms transfer aims to enhance Philippines' capabilities in the South China Sea amid escalating tensions with Beijing.

India has delivered the first batch of BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles to the Philippines as part of a $375 million deal aimed at strengthening Manila's defense capabilities against China.
The BrahMos missiles, known for their high speed and difficulty to intercept, are expected to be a significant deterrent in the disputed South China Sea region.
Observers view this arms deal as a move by India to assert itself as a key security partner in Southeast Asia, countering Chinese influence.
The delivery coincides with India's efforts to increase its defense exports, with a target of $5 billion in sales, highlighting its growing role as a major arms supplier.
The strategic partnership between India and the Philippines has deepened, with defense cooperation discussions and support from other nations like the U.S. and Japan in regional disputes.